The Bellows Blow Again After Big Winds

This talk and demonstration will tell the remarkable story of how the O ' Neill family restored, revived and reimagined the Old Forge following the damage that was caused to our Built Heritage following Storm Éowyn in 2025.

Similar to what happened in 1953 when the thatched roof of the forge caught fire and the forge burnt to the ground, The O'Neill family with a great showing of Community Spirit and local traditional craftspeople using their skills were able to restore the forge voluntarily within a matter of weeks. Due to the hard work of this family, this building continues to be valued and cared for as the fires have been lit again after fifty years.

This talk will inform the public of the days of old when "travelling blacksmiths" passed through the area looking for work when the horse and cart was the main mode of transport. We will hear about the life of Jim Sullivan who took over the forge in Labasheeda at the age of 16 and ran it for over 60 years until his death in 1987.

The importance of the Shannon Estuary to the forge will also be highlighted as fires were started close to the tide to cool down the bands of the wheels. It will clearly show how gifted and talented the blacksmiths were and how they were "outstanding trademen and master craftsmen" and people who are admired to this day.